Spending time outdoors can be healthy. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which promotes healthy bones and teeth; and supports the overall health of your brain, immune, and nervous system. Being outdoors regularly may also help prevent anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Yes, the sun can bring countless health benefits, but being out unprotected can also result in several risks. Unprotected sun exposure can trigger uncomfortable symptoms, such as dizziness, profuse sweating, and decreased urination. Excessive sun exposure may also cause eye damage, skin damage, immune system suppression, and even skin cancer.
Enjoy the sunny outdoors without worrying about your health and wellness by incorporating the tips below to your lifestyle:
Properly Use A Sunscreen
Investing in high-quality sunscreens from reliable brands such as Brush on Block is a must if you want to take care of your skin when you’re out and about. Sunscreen works by blocking and absorbing the harmful ultraviolet rays produced by the sun, thus reducing your risk of sunburn.
With the number of sunscreens available today, make sure to pick one that contains at least sun protector factor (SPF) 15 and offers broad-spectrum protection from ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
Apply one coat of sunscreen every two hours to your entire body, including your face, hands, and feet. These parts aren’t always protected by your clothing, so don’t forget to reapply sunscreen in these areas.
Know When Is The Worst Time To Be Out
To enjoy the health benefits of the sun, be wary of when you’re going to be out. The sun can be too extreme during certain times of the day, and being out during these times can only do more harm than good.
As much as possible, stay indoors between 10 AM and 4 PM. This is when the sun’s heat is at its strongest and hottest. Regularly going out during this time of the day can immediately cause your skin to get reddish due to the sudden increase in your blood flow.
Plan your outdoor activities later in the afternoon or earlier in the morning. But if you really can’t avoid it, make sure to wear protection when you’re out. Planning to spend the afternoon at the beach? Use a huge beach umbrella. Seeing a friend in the park for a picnic? Make sure to look for a shaded area.
Think About Your Outfit
Pick your outfit carefully if you want to enjoy the sunny outdoors. There are available clothing pieces that can make you look good and protect you from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Whenever you’re going out, wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants. These items can effectively protect you from the sun. Aside from clothing, colors can protect you too. Dark colors shield more than lighter ones, so opt to wear black, purple, or other darker hues when you’re out.
Try Wearing A Hat
Not everyone is fond of wearing hats, but if you want to get the most protection from the sun, you should start adding this accessory to your outfits. Wearing hats can provide shade for your head and neck areas, thus avoiding sunburn.
When choosing what to wear, opt for ones made from tightly woven fabrics as these work best in protecting your skin from the sun’s UV rays. Similar to clothes, a darker hat also offers better UV protection. Refrain from using straw hats with holes as these allow sunlight to pass through and eventually damage your skin.
Invest In A Pair Of Sunglasses
To finish off your look when going out in the sun, don’t forget to wear a pair of sunglasses. Aside from making you look more fashionable, wearing sunglasses can reduce the likelihood of skin cancer, lower the risk of cataracts, and prevent macular degeneration.
Because sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun, you’ll avoid squinting your eyes whenever you’re out. Over time, this will prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes. Additionally, sunglasses can protect your skin as excessive sun exposure can result in premature skin aging.
Drink More Water
Spending time outdoors increases your risk of dehydration. This condition occurs when your body loses too much fluid. Dehydration can cause several symptoms, such as irritability, dry mouth, dry skin, and dizziness.
Prioritize increasing your water intake whenever you’re spending time outdoors. Bring your own tumbler, so you can easily refill it with water whenever you’re out. Drinking a lot of water is a great way to prevent dehydration and ensure that your body continues to function as usual.
Take Extra Precautions Before Heading Out
Before you head out and spend time in the sun, follow all of the tips provided in this article. Doing so might be time-consuming, but the results will surely be worth it. It’ll be easier for you to enjoy the great outdoors when you know you’re safe and healthy!
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